Remember: The importance of human rights
HUMAN Rights Day was observed on December 10 and marked the day on which the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
In 1950, the Assembly passed resolution 423 (V), inviting all States and interested organisations to observe December 10 of each year as Human Rights Day.
This year, Human Rights Day called on everyone to stand up for someone’s rights. According to the UN, many of us are fearful about the direction in which the world is heading, and disrespect for basic human rights continues to be widespread in all parts of the globe, with humane values constantly under attack.
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, “On Human Rights Day, let us recommit to guaranteeing the fundamental freedoms and protecting the human rights of all.”
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, added: “It’s time for each of us to step up for human rights. There is no action that is too small: wherever you are, you can make a difference. Together, let’s take a stand for more humanity.”
Member States were charged to reaffirm their common humanity, by making a real difference wherever they are — in the street, in school, at work, in public transport, in the voting booth, and on social media.
